Health department offers free disposal of products containing mercury
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    The Southeastern Utah District Health Department (SEUDHD) has teamed up with the Utah Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) to provide area residents the opportunity to get rid of products containing mercury.  

    "We live in an area where liquid mercury has been collected and is being stored in a variety of places, said Terrie Wright, emergency response coordinator for SEUDHD. "We frequently hear of people cleaning out sheds, garages or basements only to discover a container with mercury in it. Mercury is also in old thermometers, thermostats and old chemistry sets."

    "Keeping mercury around your home isn't illegal; it's just not a good idea. It not only creates a huge risk for those individuals where it's stored, but also for firemen or other first responders," added Wright.

    Mercury is a neurotoxin and, when released into the environment, can present health risks including learning disabilities and mental problems. Children and pregnant women are particularly susceptible to mercury exposure.

    In an effort to keep mercury out of the local landfills, SEUDHD will be accepting products containing mercury for a limited time.   

    The following instructions are advised:

     Call the health department at (435) 637-3671 before bringing the item

     Containers must have the lids on tight and not be leaking

     Double bag the item in zip lock bags.   

     If the item is glass wrap it in bubble wrap to protect it from breaking before placing it in the double bag.

    Never use a vacuum cleaner or broom to clean up mercury. Visit DEQ's website at www.deq.utah.gov for proper cleanup and disposal.

    This collection effort is for Carbon, Emery, San Juan and Grand county residents only and is not available to businesses. For more information contact SEUDHD at (435) 637-3671.
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